The 12th Diner en Blanc in Philadelphia took place at Love Park
Earlier this summer, at the preview party for Diner en Blanc Philadelphia co-host of Le Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia Natanya DiBona said: “We are thrilled to announce the return of Le Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia for its 12th year on August 15th, 2024.” “This iconic event has become a cherished tradition, bringing together our community in a magical evening of elegance, friendship, and celebration. We can’t wait to create more unforgettable memories with everyone this year.” And that they did.
I’m always in awe of the guests who have to carry their supplies in all types of weather, to a spot, where they wait for instructions. After shooting the event for over a decade I realize now that it’s not only about the element of surprise, but logistically for set up purposes.
Le Diner en Blanc is so much more than an event! It’s a unique cultural movement that empowers friends of friends to gather and celebrate their shared passions for life, food, fashion, and community, year after year, with a pinch of mystery and large serving of spontaneity.
Versions are held on six continents, bringing diners dressed in white to a temporary setup in a public space, using their own food, tables, chairs and tablecloths.
Kashya Harton, Tyeisha Washington and Lillian Roberts
If you have it they will come, from all walks of life, to enjoy a magical night in a Philly in a public space.
Kayli Moran and Natanya DiBona co chairs, and the first organizers of the Philadelphia Diner en Blanc since it’s inception in Philly.
as someone who has photographed this event from the beginning, I am so grateful to Kayli and Natanya, for all the volunteers, for the City and the guests who have supported this event. It’s huge, it’s sometimes inconvenient, it’s a beautiful escape from reality which we all deserve. James Spence and Ley Joanis had previous gone to one in Delaware, and was attending the Philadelphia for the first time.Tamisha Clark waves a napkin to indicate the beginning of dinner.
Thank you to my friends Kate & Mark for allowing me to shoot Diner en Blanc from her apartment building.
Diner en Blanc has always had the best Instagramable spots, but nothing beats the Love Statue.A slice of Diner en Blanc. The press area was located in the former Love Park Welcome Center, something exciting I’m sure to come. Thanks to the City Reps office for letting me shoot this from their offices.Arguably one of the most iconic moments of the night – the lighting of the sparklers to signify the end of dinner and the beginning of dancing.Brandon and Anna DeAngeliscore memories were made on August 15 in Philly. I’ll never be stressed out at this intersection again.Hanna Burnett, Leah Briggin , Jean Greeff and Tom Fitzpatrick Becca Adap gives Shanree Thomas a bite of her dessertNellie Hill, Devon Conley, and Jordan Conley, Table by Danielle MelbourneThe organizer go all out for the guests, there’s always surprises popping up, roller skaters, double dutch rope jumpers, angels, strolling musicians and the list goes on. I never even see every thing.My girlfriends decided to all wear pearls to dinner. Hey I see Erika and Rodney McLeod’s new baby girl making her public debut (l)
Broad Street band entertains the crowd who danced in the street til 11pm
Congratulations to Kate Marlys, Philly Pr Girl and Declan Rodgers on their engagement! Great job with the PR for Diner en Blanc as well!! Winning night.
12 years strong. It’s just amazing how this event has grown, and survived, even through the pandemic. Thanks again to all those involved. Thanks to all my ChitChatters who stopped me to say hi, sorry if you haven’t seen your photos yet, they’re still to come in Philly Style Mag, Philly Mag, Main Line Today and right now in CBSPhilly.
If you’d like to attend Diner en Blanc Philly click here
On Thursday, Aug. 15, at 11:30 a.m., the 76ers and Penn Medicine teamed up to unveil a newly refurbished basketball court at Roberto Clemente Park in Philadelphia, cutting a ribbon on a new and safe place where local youth and their families can gather.
The Sixers Dance Team performed.
As did Sixers Stix, who will also be performing tonight at Diner en Blanc
Susan Slawson – Parks and Recreation Commissioner, stated how grateful the City was that partners like the Sixers and Penn Medicine would support projects like this as the City does not have the funding alone to execute on this level. Which we call gap funding. It’s why entities like Rittenhouse Square has a gala, to raise funds for the upkeep of the very public Rittenhouse Square.
Legend Dr J was in the house. He told the gathered crowd, especially the kids, that a neighborhood basketball court was a great way to start off ones dream of being a pro player. It was also a great place to make friends, and socialize, but it takes more than play time to become great. It takes working hard in school, discipline and being a good kid.
Newly elected Council Person Jeffery Young Jr. – City Council (District 5) was excited to pick up from the last administration to finish the project for the Spring Garden/Fairmount neighborhood. He also announced the Fairmount Sunflower Festival would be taking place September 7. Save the date.
Magda Morerief, Millie Watson, Lauren Bhal and Lindsay Felder of the Sixers
Were putting smiles on lots of kids faces with Sixers Swag. Next up for the Sixers is Wilt Chamberlain Memorial Fund Pickleball Tournament and Reception on September 7. INFO
On Wednesday, August 7 Philadelphia magazine hosted their annual Best of Philly Soirée at a new venue this year, the Philadelphia Art Museum.
In the past the popular event was held on Dilworth Park, and was subjected to unbearable heat waves, downpours and often both. Another winner the choice: This year there was a light mist for most of the evening.
Senzwa Ntshepe, The Connect stands in front of LED Marquee lights, and Charming Garlands balloon backdrop.
Guests were treated to delicious bites from partners and Best of Philly winning restaurants.
Danuta Mieloch and the team from Rescue Spa, celebrating their 20th Anniversary this year
Fred Stein , and Neil Stein of for The Creative Group, saved my night by providing me a pen and paper. I took too much summer off and forgot how to do my job, LOL
Greg Harm, Leisa De John Nappe, Jen Ellman, Emil de John and John Iuliano in the Wells Fargo VIP lounge.Chef/Founder, Kyle Cuffie–Scott (r) & Chef/Co-Owner Joe Lope (l) of Darnel’s Cake who served up delicious treats at the Soiree with Molly, of Bishop’s Collar in Fairmount dance to the beats of the night.
Roland Bui, Sandy Sanches-Bui, Tammy Veneza and Christy Nguyen;
One to watch: Roland Bui is the entrepreneur brainchild behind Com.unity, a marketing arm for Philly’s artists and culinary talent. Shining a light on talent, that might not always be in the spotlight, the unsung. I see him driving Philly’s restaurant scene back in the spotlight as it was a decade ago. One of the ways he highlights talent is through his collaborative dinners. The next one Monday August 26th at Bok Bar. INFO
Imani Johnson and Brianna Perrin, favorite restaurant is El Techo
Dominick Leonetti, III and his mom Maria Leonetti new owners of Bobby Chez Famous Crabcakes
It’s always fun to run into the Bobby Chez folks, when I was a kid my first job was washing dishes at Bobby Chez’ restaurant in Voorhees NJ, 40 years ago (inside the Flyers ice practice rink building). He later opened a spot in Westmont, that gained infamy.
The Fairmount Park Team, Best of Philly Playground, FDR’s Anna C. Verna Playground: Maura McCarthy, John Sigmund, Erin Quigley, Allison Schapker, and Meg Holscher
Looks like the burbs are looking good on Joe and Sarah Maiellano. A prolific writer and publicist, Sarah contributed to the 50th Anniversary issue of Philly Mag.
Will I ever see that photo Mainey Boy? LOL
Speaking of: Jermaine Jenkins, Design Philadelphia, Anthony Lehman, & Mason Snyder of Feast Your Eyes, Trina Saglimbene and Melissa Brannon, Uncommon Events
Great venue, spread out over four floors with plenty of bites and booze, live entertainment and art. People really enjoyed themselves.
The Fairmount Park Conservancy team, Best of Philly Playground, FDR’s Anna C. Verna Playground: Maura McCarthy, John Sigmund, Erin Quigley, Allison Schapker, and Meg Holscher
Imani Johnson and Brianna Perrin, favorite restaurant is El Techo
Tom McGrath, former editor of Philly Mag (and the guy who hired me over a decade ago. I can remember it as if it were yesterday. I was still a paralegal and met him on my lunch hour. I had never took a photo class or journalism class, and Philly Mag, a magazine I read all my life, my mom had a subscription, wanted to hire me for their Society/Party column, WOW!!) BTW Tom has a new book out. and Kate McGrath, Jan and Jamil Leary
New on the scene and to Philly Stephanie Lulls, of Remy Martin
Speaking of new: Popular NYC’s Levain Bakery is coming to 1518 Walnut Street, in the fall. John Farmer, Arlene DeLaCruz and Pam Levy. Looking forward to it, definitely a better spot than the now closed Carlos’ Bakery at 21st and Walnut!!
Adam Rotwit and Jen Su, on a break from covering the many celebrity red carpet events worldwide.
Then all the major mascots showed up to this years Soiree, and were excited to show off their magazine covers from over the years. It really was a special night for all in attendance. Social season is heating up, and I will be posting more on chitchat going forward. Socially yours, xoxo HughE
Rev, Lorina Marshall-Blake, Independence Blue Cross Foundation. Monique Braxton, spokesperson for School District of Philadelphia, Debora Carrera, Ed.D, City of Philadelphia and Tony B. Watlington, Sr. Ed.D Superintendent SDP speak at the Back to School Launch EventWillie and Artul wait in line for the backpacks, before walking at the dozen tables packed with programs to assist in his education.
The School District of Philadelphia kicked off the 4th Annual Back-to-School Celebration & Bus Tour with a block party at the School of the Future on Monday.
Local students were given a free backpack filled with school supplies during the event, while parents and caregivers had an opportunity to register their children for pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade and sign up for the district’s online Parent Portal, school officials said.
Dr. Kwane Williams and Toni Okarma hand out school supplies pertaining to understanding math. Math is taught a bit differently than when their parents were students. It’s really amazing the programs offered to the students to assist them in their education.Kathryn Block and Rev. Lorina Marshall-Blake, president of IBC Foundation hand out back packs to students. Black was the most popular color, but girls still love pink as well.
As in previous years, the Tour is powered by the Independence Blue Cross Foundation, and brings critical Back-to-School information and services right to your neighborhood. From July 29 through August 17, the bus will travel across Philly hosting 7 fun-filled Mega-Events co-sponsored by various partners including Radio One, Office Depot, and Roosevelt Mall – as well as a new partner this year – Fashion District Philadelphia!
Families pose in front of the Eagles Eye Mobile at the 4th annual “Back-to-School Celebration and Bus Tour.”Face paintingTree House Books – Free Book Mobile. They give out books to students and adults.Elijah and Amara
School Starts Monday, August 26th! Join the Celebration and prepare for a great new school year.
Free backpacks and school supplies (while supplies last)
Back-to-school tips and information
Free immunizations and school physicals
Snacks and frozen treats
Educational activities
New to the District? Register your child on-site
Sign up for a Parent Portal account
Fun games, raffles, and prizes
Victoria Wylie and Andra Dawson of the Keith Dawson Foundation
Today:
Wednesday, July 31 | 10 AM – 2 PM FDR Park – Boathouse Lawn 1500 Pattison Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Friday, August 2 | 10 AM – 2 PM ***A representative from ASERT will be in attendance***Central High School Football Field 1700 W. Olney Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19141 (use field entrances on Somerville Ave.)
Find the full Bus Tour schedule, latest back-to-school updates, immunization opportunities, and other important information at philasd.org/ringthebell or by calling 215-400-4000.
Colette and Sam Gabriele hosted another spectacular Night in Venice Party – Under the SeaPhiladelphia Eagles veteran Brandon Graham family, friends and Cindy Webster on board
Ocean City NJ Night in Venice July 20 2024 The event’s theme is “Summertime Vibes: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett” Philadelphia Eagles veteran Brandon Graham and his family are special guests. ESPN reporter and host Marty Smith is grand marshal.
BTW Brandon Graham is next level amazing. He was the special guest for OC Night in Venice, stayed until the fireworks. Stopped by the Gabriele party around 10. Then Sunday 6am participating in the Families Behind Badges ride from Philly to AC. WOW
Jewelz Entertainment
Magnificent
NorEaster Nick
Leslie M and Larry Cohen (looking amazing after 140lb loss, on a very strict diet.) It was sooo great to see my old friend. Larry introduced me to Geno Vento about 15 years ago and said you two need to know one another.
Bart and Jil Blatstein
Mike and Michelle
Christopher and Carol Wolfington
Savino and Bernard Hopkins << another old friend. We were going to do a big project together before the pandemic but it never happened. Damn pandemic. Great to see his wife Joy as well.
Adam Panichi and Matt Gabriele
Mike Toub
Jonathan, Lisa, Neena and Piero – See youse in Wildwood later this week!!
Burger in Paradise
Sabrina Thorne, Savino and Carol Tamburino
Don Thomas and Matthew Wetzel of Thomas Matthews Designs CMCH
Rep Amen Brown and Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, Archbishop of Philadelphia.
BLOCS (Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools), the largest scholarship organization in Pa., for prek-12, hosted its 2024 Gala: Lighting Up the Future on May 9, 2024, , at the Crystal Tea Room (100 E Penn Sq.).
Linda Czachor, Theresa Grace, Kathy Kelley and Nancy Gabriele
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the BLOCS Teacher of the Year Award, sponsored by FlynnO’Hara Uniforms. Mr. Shane Taylor from Archbishop Ryan Catholic High School was named the 2024 BLOCS Teacher of the Year. Taylor was nominated by Kyla Carberry, a freshman at Ryan, who is visually impaired. His remarkable impact goes beyond the curriculum as he is credited with empowering students like Kyla to conquer challenges with a blend of support, laughter, and generosity. Taylor teaches math and is a 2015 graduate of Archbishop Ryan.
The Little Flower choir performed during the gala, and music students from St. Hubert and Archbishop Ryan entertained during the cocktail reception.
Chloe Harris, Dominic Ciaverella and Trevor Sino
Viewed as the premiere scholarship organization in PA, BLOCS partners with more than 100 Archdiocesan and more than 300 private Catholic and non-Catholic schools to provide over 17,000 need-based scholarships each year.
Tom Fitti and Katie Rose Thornton
Legendary college basketball coach and champion of Catholic education Phil Martelli emceed the gala, guiding guests through a program filled with inspiration and celebration – his involvement emphasizing the importance of teamwork in achieving educational excellence.
Mike Godown and Rebecca Goodown
“Through our donors, BLOCS is dedicated to raising over $100 million annually in funding because we believe that every child, regardless of financial constraints, deserves a future filled with promise and opportunity,” said Matt McFillin, BLOCS Board Chair. “Our gala celebrates Catholic education and continues to light the future for students and families in the Philadelphia region.”
Legendary college basketball coach and champion of Catholic education Phil Martelli
A lively crowd of more than 300 guests, including dedicated donors, board members, and fervent supporters, gathered to champion BLOCS’ cause. BLOCS donors use their PA tax liability to fund scholarships and receive a 90% tax credit. This is through the establishment of Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs.
BLOCS just launched a user-friendly tax credit calculator, simplifying the process for potential donors to estimate their contribution under the PA Tax Credit program. Those pledging a minimum yearly donation exceeding $3,000 are eligible to enroll. To join the ranks of BLOCS donors and make a difference in a student’s life, go to BLOCS.org/taxcredit and a BLOCS rep will respond.
Fairmount Park Conservancy’s 13th Annual Centennial Celebration at FDR Park
On Wednesday, April 24, Fairmount Park Conservancy hosted its 13th annual Centennial Celebration with a sneak preview of FDR Park’s Welcome Center. The dinner brought together Conservancy community leaders, partners, donors, and award recipients for an evening of celebration in support of Philadelphia’s parks.
JD Kelly and Alexandra Kelly
Cheryl Binswanger, Anna Brinks and Dorothy Binswanger
Mike Dunn, Sam Gorodetzer, Keanu Ibarrondo, and Mackenzie Hockensmith
Connor Barwin, former Eagles player and founder of Make The World A Better Place, U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, Councilmember Nina Ahmad and Maura McCarthy, Chief Executive Officer Fairmount Park Conservancy
Mike Dunn, Sam Gorodetzer, Keanu Ibarrondo, and Mackenzie Hockensmith
A special congratulations to the honorees, PMorgan Chase, which received the Centennial Award for Corporate Stewardship, and the Southeast Asian Market, which received the 2024 John K. Binswanger Park Champion award.
Guests enjoyed a sit down dinner
“We want to continue that legacy of making sure all young people throughout the city of Philadelphia regardless of everyone’s neighborhood or ZIP codes, have a safe haven and enjoy themselves.” – Council President Kenyatta Johnson
Thanks for the sneak peek of the renovated Welcome Center. The completed project will include the transformation of the existing stables into a 4,000 SF café and the creation of a 6,700 SF multi-purpose event space overlooking Pattison Lagoon that will include public restrooms, public courtyard with three food vendors, staffed information center for bike rentals and park permit sign-ups, and community event and meeting spaces.
The leadership and board of Avenue of the Arts, Inc. announced today its vision for a transformative $100 million plan to re-imagine the Avenue of the Arts (aka S. Broad Street) from City Hall to Washington Avenue into a lush, green arts park.
Oliver Schaper, Gensler Architects; Tom McCarthy, Avenue of the Arts Board Member, Philadelphia City Councilman Mark Squilla; Carl Dranoff, Avenue of the Arts Board Member; OBJ; Laura Burkhardt, Avenue of the Arts Executive Director; Dianne Semingson, Avenue of the Arts Board Chair; Tiphanie White – Chief of Staff for Council President Kenyatta Johnson; Valerie Gay, City of Philadelphia Chief of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy; NOW known as Phila Creative
Titled Avenue of the Arts 2.0, this groundbreaking project is designed by world-renowned architecture, design, and planning firm Gensler, and landscape and urban planning practice OJB. The aim is to create a serene and green, arts-inspired attraction in the heart of Center City for residents and visitors alike that creates a more sustainable and livable city for future generations.
The plan envisions a 10-block pedestrian-friendly arts park with verdant landscaping, café seating, aerial sculptures, rotating public art, new outdoor performance spaces, and greened medians adorned with public art.
Enhanced lighting will accentuate this new urban oasis and make it a day-and-night destination. Nestled in the heart of Center City will be a new place to hang out with friends, dine, stroll, and enjoy inspiring creativity.
Laura Burkhardt
Executive Director Laura Burkhardt. “Today, the Avenue of the Arts is one of the City’s most dynamic mixed-use corridors with thousands of residents and millions of visitors each year. This initiative will add ‘world-class arts city’ to Philadelphia’s renown as a hub of history and sports.”
The Avenue of the Arts has evolved into a highly sought-after neighborhood with over 4,000 apartment and condominium residences including Art Haus, six top-brand hotels, dozens of top restaurants, exquisite architecture, and one of the most walkable collections of public art and murals in the U.S. Avenue newcomers receiving rave reviews include Loch Bar by the Baltimore-based Atlas Restaurant Group with its seafood tavern concept serving lunch and dinner at the corner of Spruce Street.
Chase is opening a branch at Broad & Walnut, down the street from where Insomnia Cookies unveiled its new headquarters and main bakery, and Lubert Adler initiated a $100 million renovation at the Bellevue.
And just last week, on July 1, 2024, Post Brothers and Tower Investments welcomed the initial residents to the first $400 million phase of One Thousand One, an apartment complex located on the Avenue of the Arts and Washington Avenue. When completed, the complex will feature 1,400 luxury apartments and a 44,000-square-foot Giant grocery store.
The Wardrobe, a mission-driven nonprofit organization focused on eliminating clothing insecurity, curbing fashion waste, and empowering people for success, hosted its largest annual fundraiser “The VIP Party,” on Monday, June 10, at Rivers Casino.
The event was emceed by Delaware County native Leah Cevoli, a multi-hyphenate creative best known for voicing characters on the Emmy award-winning cartoon Robot Chicken and her work on the HBO hit series Deadwood. Leah is currently in town producing the feature film, Delco: The Movie.
The Wardrobe is a mission-driven nonprofit organization focused on eliminating clothing insecurity, curbing fashion waste, and empowering people for success.
Elana Chasan, Paige Wolf and Nicole Martin
Laura Vaughn and Gianna Cettei
Many McClennen, Melissa Novak, Kate Carlie and Laura Reed
Guests arrived, and enjoyed an hour long cocktail party with a buffet before settling down for the program and an exciting game of bingo.
Sheri K. Cole. Executive Director, discussed how to support the Programs, as well as The Wardrobe locations in Philadelphia (413 N. 4th Street) and Delaware County (62 West Marshall Road, Upper Darby) are open Monday-Saturday from 11-6 p.m. for shopping and client appointments. In Chester County, we are open in Kennett Square (345 Scarlett Road) and at the Exton Square Mall (2nd floor near Boscov’s) Tuesday-Thursday from 11-6 p.m. Clothing donations are accepted during open hours. Visit www.wardrobepa.org to learn how to donate and shop to support your community.
Veronica McKee cheers to the 2 keys she bought for $100 each, in hopes of winning top prizes in one of the surprise boxes.
Kris Derewicz, Nina Markey, The Wardrobe Board President and Paul Sopher all of Littler
Riley Mock and Kade Deeton
Best Dressed: Rhonda Richardson, was noted for being one of the best dressed of the evenings. She got her outfit from The Wadrobe!! Great choice!!
If the key fits… The first winner of the $100 key reacts to the lock opening, as Sheri Cole cheers. Each box contained prizes worth more than $200 up to $1000. Another great event, see you next year!!
Receive Clothing: Although most participants are referred by our Community Partners, individuals in need are welcome to use our Open Access program to receive the clothing they need at no cost. Information on how to get clothing or sign up as a Community Partner is available at www.wardrobepa.org/services.
On Wednesday, June 26 Rittenhouse Grill (1701 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA) unveils a new bar concept – the Leopard Lounge!!
If you’ve never been to the Rittenhouse Grill, you’ll find this award-winning restaurant nestled on the first floor of the Warwick Rittenhouse Square Hotel. In addition to serving amazing culinary experiences to diners for over 25 years, it has long been known as one of Philadelphia’s power restaurants for celebrities, politicians, athletes, and more.
The sprawling restaurant resembles a swanky supper club that accommodates upward of 220 guests across a multi-level dining room highlighted by a wall-to-wall leopard print rug. Garth Weldon – Restaurant Owner – Rittenhouse Grill
Each night, a performer uses the stunning glass-topped baby grand piano to entertain guests by playing early 20th-century American jazz standards, show tunes, classics from the ‘80s and ‘90s, and even the latest hits!
Brenda Hillegas, Rowhome Magazine and Genevieve XiongAlex Coxen, Lauren Meyer and Montana KashrianAlexander Perry and Maggie Munthali
Leopards are fast felines and can run at up to 58km/h! They’re super springy, too, and can leap 6m forward through the air – that’s the length of three adults lying head to toe!
Phuong Nguyen and Suzi Nash, PGN columnist. A legend in the field. I know I irritate her as I keep turning her down for an interview. I’m shy.
Scott Fisher, GM Warwick Rittenhouse Square Hotel and Carla Fisher
Melanie Highbloom @melmelllll and Laura Swartz, Deputy Editor Philly Mag, @pompomflipflop; With the summer heat coming on strong this season, I’d recomend strolling over to the new Leopard Lounge at the Rittenhouse Grill for a hot time with the air conditioning on blast in the swanky new bar.
You might have noticed a page change here at PhillyChitChat. I was so busy working and ignoring my emails from WordPress, my blog site. It seems my former custom page was out of date. Who knew that could happen. WP updated itself and now I have to create a new backdrop, although I am ok with this white background. But there are a few things missing from the page, like my subscriber link, which can be found under “Today’s Post”. I’ll figure it all out this summer when I have a lot of time. Also some photos from this event will be in one of my magazine partners in September. So if you don’t see you here, or on CBSPhilly….
